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Hungary — Europe’s Hidden Heart

Where Central Europe’s rhythm meets modern opportunity. Hungary combines timeless architecture, wellness traditions, and business accessibility, offering a life that feels both cultured and practical.

With EU and Schengen membership, an affordable cost of living, and one of Europe’s lowest tax rates, Hungary stands out as a natural choice for relocation, investment, and long-term residence. A country that balances beauty, value, and connection — right at the center of the continent.

Budapest Parliament and Danube River at dusk, Hungary



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What Sets Hungary Apart?

At the crossroads of Central Europe, Hungary offers the stability of an EU and Schengen member with a remarkably affordable cost of living. Its capital, Budapest, blends imperial architecture and thermal spa culture with modern start-up energy and global connectivity. English is widely used in business and urban life, making daily integration smooth for newcomers.

Safety, healthcare, and community remain key strengths. Hungary consistently ranks high for personal security, its public–private healthcare mix is efficient and low-cost, and its culture prizes education and family life. Whether it’s riverside walks along the Danube, art-nouveau cafés in Pest, or countryside wine regions, Hungary delivers European quality of life without Western-European prices.




7th
Global Passport
17th
Safety Ranking
18th
Digital Nomad Index
41.97
Healthcare Score






Hungary Residency Pathways

Detailed breakdown of residence routes for non-EU nationals — from investors and digital professionals to entrepreneurs and skilled employees.

Good to know: Hungary’s new immigration framework (Act XC of 2023) took full effect on 1 January 2025, reshaping all residence categories. Standard work permits are now restricted to select partner countries, while high-value routes — the Guest Investor Program (GIP), the White Card (Digital Nomad Permit), and the EU Blue Card — define the new system. Entrepreneurs may also qualify through a Guest Self-Employment Permit.

Guest Investor Residence Permit

€250 000 real-estate-fund investment or €1 000 000 donation

Hungary’s flagship long-term residence route for investors, re-launched in July 2024. Grants a 10-year permit (renewable) for investors and family members. No minimum-stay rule; offers a clear path to permanent residence and citizenship.

  • Investment via licensed real-estate fund (€250 000 min.) or public-trust donation (€1 000 000)
  • Spouse, minor children & dependent parents can be included
  • No physical-presence requirement to maintain status
  • Eligibility for PR after 3 years (with residence) and citizenship after 8
  • Full work and business rights in Hungary
Learn More

Digital Nomad Residence Permit (“White Card”)

€3 000 monthly income + private health insurance

For remote professionals employed by, or running, non-Hungarian businesses. Grants a one-year residence permit, renewable once. Holders may live in Hungary but cannot work for local employers.

  • Minimum €3 000 monthly income for previous 6 months
  • Health insurance & Hungarian address required
  • No family inclusion under current rules
  • 1-year permit, renewable once (2 years max.)
  • Does not count toward PR or citizenship residency time

EU Blue Card (for Highly Qualified Workers)

Salary ≥ 1.5× national average (≈ HUF 9.3 M / €23 800 per year)

Combines residence and work authorization for non-EU professionals with recognized qualifications. Provides family reunification rights and EU-wide mobility.

  • University degree or 5+ years equivalent experience required
  • Issued for up to 4 years; renewable
  • Employer sponsorship mandatory
  • Family members eligible for residence
  • Counts toward long-term EU residency after 5 years

Guest Self-Employment / Entrepreneur Permit

Company formation (~HUF 3 M ≈ €7 700) + viable business plan

Designed for founders or freelancers managing their own Hungarian company (Kft). Requires proof of sustainable income and business activity.

  • Establish a registered Hungarian Kft via local lawyer
  • Minimum capital ≈ €7 700 + personal savings (~€10 000)
  • Show monthly income ≥ €1 500
  • 1-year permit, renewable up to 2 years
  • Path to PR/citizenship through continuous renewal

Student Residence Permit

University admission + funds + insurance

For students enrolled in accredited full-time programs in Hungary. Allows part-time work (up to 30 hrs/week) during term and full-time in holidays.

  • Valid for study duration
  • Convertible to employment or business permit after graduation
  • Work hours limited under law
  • Family accompaniment possible under conditions
  • Counts toward residency timeline

Family Reunification Permit

Proof of relationship + sponsor’s residency status

For dependents of lawful residents or citizens. Provides residence rights to spouse, minor children and, in some cases, dependent parents.

  • Linked to sponsor’s permit validity
  • Healthcare and education access included
  • Not available for White Card dependents
  • Contributes toward long-term residence eligibility
  • Requires translated and legalised documents





Major Recent Changes — Act XC of 2023

Effective 1 January 2025, Hungary’s new immigration law completely restructured residence categories under Act XC of 2023. Standard employment permits are now limited to nationals of Georgia and Armenia, while high-value and professional routes dominate the new system.

  • Employment Permits Restricted: Only citizens of Georgia & Armenia can access standard work permits.
  • Skilled Talent Focus: Qualified professionals must use the EU Blue Card or Key Employee pathways.
  • Investor Pivot: The Guest Investor Program (GIP) relaunched July 2024 — €250 000 real-estate fund or €1 million donation.

The reform signals Hungary’s shift toward high-value residency and investment programs, tightening general labour migration while expanding opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and digital talent.




Hungary Immigration & Residency Experts

Move to Hungary with Attorney-Led Support

Explore tailored residence options under Hungary’s new 2025 immigration law (Act XC of 2023), including the Guest Investor Program (GIP), White Card (Digital Nomad Permit), EU Blue Card, and Entrepreneur Residence Permit. We also assist with family reunification, student visas, and citizenship planning. Information only — no investment advice provided.

2 500+ Clients served across the EU
2 h Weekday response SLA
5 + Years specialising in residency law
Book a Consultation



Hungary Residency by Investment

Hungary’s Guest Investor Residence Permit (GIP) offers a long-term residence route for international investors and their families. Introduced under the 2023 immigration reform, it provides a ten-year residence card and the flexibility to build a base in the European Union without the need for continuous physical presence.

Learn about the Hungary Guest Investor Program
Budapest Parliament — Hungary Golden Visa

Investment Routes

Applicants may invest in a government-approved real estate fund or contribute to a registered public-benefit trust. Both routes grant a renewable ten-year residence permit under the Guest Investor framework.

Processing Timeline

Applications are filed through accredited intermediaries and reviewed by Hungary’s immigration authority. The typical timeframe for assessment and residence card issuance is around three to four months.

Family Inclusion

The program covers the main applicant, spouse or partner, minor children, and dependent parents within one application. No additional investment is required per family member.

Key Benefits

A long-term residence card valid for ten years, no minimum-stay requirement, and freedom to live or establish a business in Hungary. Holders may apply for permanent residence after three years of legal stay and for citizenship after eight.




Hungary Guest Investor Program
Step-by-Step Timeline

The Guest Investor Residence Permit (GIP) was reintroduced in July 2024 and formalised under Act XC of 2023. The process is straightforward and can typically be completed within three to four months from initial planning to card collection. Each stage below outlines what to expect when applying for Hungary’s 10-year residence permit.

Step 1Preparation

Initial consultation & investment planning

Review eligibility, choose between the real-estate-fund investment or public-benefit donation route, and gather basic documents such as passports and proof of source of funds. A consultation with an accredited intermediary helps define your optimal path.

Step 2Documentation

Compile required documents

Prepare police clearance, civil-status certificates, proof of address, income statements, and health-insurance evidence. Non-English or non-Hungarian documents must be translated and legalised (apostille or consular stamp).

Step 3Investment

Execute qualifying investment

Transfer funds to the approved real-estate fund or make the donation to a registered public-benefit trust. The intermediary issues proof of payment and compliance certificates needed for the visa file.

Step 4Type D Visa

Apply for Type D visa at Hungarian consulate

Submit your visa application along with investment proof and supporting documents. The embassy performs preliminary checks before forwarding the file to the Hungarian immigration authority.

Step 5Arrival

Travel to Hungary & register address

Once the Type D visa is issued, travel to Hungary and register a local address. This registration is required before residence-permit issuance and triggers biometrics scheduling.

Step 6Biometrics

Attend biometrics appointment

Visit the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) to provide fingerprints, photographs, and signatures. Bring your original passport and investment verification documents.

Step 7Residence Permit

Residence-card issuance

After biometrics and final approval, residence cards are printed for the main applicant and all included dependents. The permit is valid for ten years and can be renewed while investment conditions remain satisfied.

Step 8Long-Term Path

Permanent residence & citizenship

Investors may apply for permanent residence after three years of legal stay and for citizenship after eight years, subject to residence compliance and integration requirements.

Step 9After 3 Years

Apply for permanent residence

Once you’ve maintained legal residence in Hungary for three years, you may apply for permanent resident status. This stage confirms long-term ties to the country and allows you to live, work, or study without further renewals.

Step 10After 8 Years

Apply for Hungarian citizenship

After eight years of continuous residence, investors become eligible to apply for citizenship by naturalisation. Applicants must demonstrate integration, basic language knowledge, and a clean record.




Quality of Life in Hungary — Life & Safety

Everyday living in Hungary—safety, healthcare, education, housing, and the balance between European culture and affordability.

Families

Safe, affordable, and culturally rich—Hungary is a welcoming home for families seeking long-term EU residence. Budapest offers international schools, English-speaking services, and community life that blends modern comfort with heritage charm.

  • Family-friendly urban and suburban areas
  • Strong education and healthcare infrastructure
  • Moderate cost of living with high safety levels

Healthcare

Hungary combines universal public healthcare with growing private options. Clinics in Budapest and Debrecen offer English-speaking doctors, modern facilities, and affordable services compared to Western Europe.

  • Public system covers essential care
  • Private clinics for faster access
  • Insurance required for residence permits

Education (International)

International and bilingual schools are well-established in Budapest and larger cities. Tuition is typically lower than in Western Europe, and several universities—like Eötvös Loránd and Semmelweis—rank highly for global students.

  • British, American & IB programmes available
  • Affordable tuition across education levels
  • Vibrant student communities in Budapest

Neighborhoods & Housing

Budapest’s central districts (V, VI, XIII) offer elegant architecture and convenience; suburban areas like Buda Hills and District II provide space and greenery. Rental and purchase prices remain competitive by EU standards.

  • Modern apartments & renovated townhomes
  • Ownership allowed for foreign buyers
  • Stable and transparent real estate market

Safety & Cost of Living

Hungary ranks among Europe’s safer nations, with a peaceful lifestyle and low violent-crime rate. Living costs—especially housing and dining—are significantly lower than in Western Europe.

  • Consistently high global safety index
  • Affordable lifestyle in major cities
  • Reliable infrastructure and transport

Climate & Outdoors

Hungary enjoys four distinct seasons—warm summers, mild springs, and snowy winters. Locals and expats alike enjoy weekend trips to Lake Balaton, thermal spas, and hiking trails near Buda Hills.

  • Temperate continental climate
  • Famous thermal baths & wellness retreats
  • Rich nature escapes within short distance



What You Get With Movingto

From first consultation to residence card delivery, our Hungary desk provides attorney-led expertise, transparent communication, and a clear process built around the new immigration framework under Act XC of 2023.
01|

Initial Consultation

We start by understanding your goals—investment, relocation, remote work, or entrepreneurship—and determine your fit for Hungary’s available routes: the Guest Investor Program, Digital Nomad “White Card,” Entrepreneur Residence, or EU Blue Card.

02|

Route Strategy & Eligibility

Based on your profile, we outline the most efficient pathway and residency conditions. Our legal partners ensure compliance with the updated Hungarian immigration act and OIF (Aliens Policing Authority) guidelines.

03|

Document & Investment Preparation

We coordinate document collection—passports, income proof, certificates, translations, and apostilles—while aligning your selected investment or income route with official program requirements.

04|

Application Submission

Your file is submitted to the Hungarian consulate or the OIF in Budapest, depending on your visa type. We oversee background checks, investment confirmation, and communication with the authorities during evaluation.

05|

Residence Approval

After biometrics and final review, your residence permit is issued—typically valid for up to ten years under the Guest Investor Program. We assist with address registration, banking setup, and healthcare enrollment.

06|

After-Care & Long-Term Support

Our post-approval service covers renewals, dependents’ updates, and compliance checks. We also outline your path toward permanent residence after three years and citizenship eligibility after eight.





Frequently Asked Questions — Hungary

01
What is Hungary’s Guest Investor Program (GIP)?
The Guest Investor Program, launched in 2024, grants long-term residence to non-EU nationals who invest in an approved Hungarian real estate fund (minimum €250,000) or make a €1 million donation to a public-interest foundation. The residence permit is valid for ten years and renewable, with family inclusion allowed.
02
Can I work in Hungary with the Digital Nomad Visa (White Card)?
Yes, but only for foreign employers or clients. White Card holders can live in Hungary while working remotely for non-Hungarian companies. They cannot engage in local employment or earn income from Hungarian entities.
03
Does the Guest Investor permit lead to permanent residence or citizenship?
Yes. Investors may apply for permanent residence after three years of continuous legal stay. Citizenship becomes available after eight years, provided integration and language requirements are met.
04
Is there a minimum stay requirement under the GIP?
No. The Guest Investor residence permit has no annual minimum stay obligation. However, spending reasonable time in Hungary helps support future applications for permanent residence or citizenship.
05
Who can be included in my Hungary residence application?
The main applicant can include a spouse or registered partner, minor children, and dependent parents. Adult children may qualify if they are financially dependent or studying full-time.
06
What is the difference between the White Card and EU Blue Card?
The White Card is for remote professionals with non-Hungarian income, while the EU Blue Card targets highly skilled employees with a Hungarian contract. Blue Card holders gain local work rights and a faster route to permanent residence.
07
Do I need health insurance for a Hungary residence permit?
Yes. Applicants must show proof of valid health coverage that includes inpatient and emergency treatment. Private policies are accepted if they provide full coverage within Hungary.
08
What documents are required for Hungary’s Guest Investor Program?
Typical requirements include a valid passport, proof of investment or donation, criminal-record certificate, proof of funds, health insurance, and accommodation in Hungary. All foreign documents must be translated and apostilled before submission.



Exclusive Client Community

Hungary Residency & Investment Circle

A private space for investors, entrepreneurs, and families navigating Hungary’s new immigration framework. Access expert briefings, verified updates, and shared experiences from others establishing residence through the Guest Investor Program, White Card, or entrepreneur and family routes. (Includes full guidance under Act XC of 2023 and ongoing GIP reforms.)
Attorney-Led Updates
Receive regular insights from Hungary-based immigration counsel on GIP, OIF procedures, and investment fund regulations.
Policy & Application Insights
Step-by-step clarity on document requirements, timelines, and background check standards under the 2025 framework.
Tax & Compliance Briefings
Practical explanations of Hungary’s flat 15% income tax, company setup requirements, and dual residency considerations.
Relocation & Local Setup Support
Connect with partners for housing, banking, insurance, and family registration — everything needed post-approval.
Join our Facebook Community



Movingto Hub

Exclusive Client Community

Ongoing support, local resources, and expert briefings for clients establishing their new life in Hungary.

Expat Network

Connect with others relocating to Hungary—insights, relocation stories, and networking opportunities across Budapest, Debrecen, and Szeged.

Member Discounts

Preferential rates on legal, relocation, property, and tax services through verified Hungary-based partners and financial institutions.

Expert Resources

Guides, checklists, and templates covering the Guest Investor Program, White Card, EU Blue Card, and general OIF procedures.

Ongoing Support

Help with renewals, family updates, and communication with Hungarian authorities for residence or investor permit holders.

Local Insights

Neighborhood guides for Budapest districts, schooling options, healthcare networks, and transportation tips for daily life.

Policy Updates

Stay informed on Hungary’s evolving immigration law, investment regulations, and digital nomad policies under Act XC of 2023.

Ready to join the community?

The Hub is for clients only. Start your Hungary application to unlock access to our private platform and tailored relocation support.

Start your application
Dean and Ana
Independent & Founder-Led
We’re Dean and Ana. We moved our family across Europe and built the Golden Visa service we wish existed: real lawyers from day one, direct answers, clear fees, and a fund comparison that speaks human. Strategy, track record, liquidity, and U.S. suitability, so you can decide in days, not months.

We keep momentum with same-day replies and tight checklists from first call to submission.

If something’s slow or risky, we say it. If there’s a cleaner route, we steer you there. The goal is simple: remove noise, keep you in control, and make approval feel inevitable.

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Disclaimer: Moving To Global Pte Ltd is not licensed to provide investment advice. All fund content is general information compiled from public sources and manager disclosures. It does not consider your objectives or risk profile. Speak with a licensed financial adviser before investing. We can introduce you to advisers on request.
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